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The first experience any guests have with your home is your front porch. There are things you communicate to the outside world with your porch, whether intentional or not; therefore, you should consider making the front of your home a welcoming and inviting place. So, of course, you want to make your porch inviting!
There are many different door types available for the consumer. You just have to choose the one that you love and that makes your home welcoming. After all, guests or passerby’s will make assumptions about your home’s interior based upon the state of your front porch. So how can you send the right message and make a great first impression with your home’s entryway? Beyond interesting and unique doors, there are several options for you to create a warm and welcoming front porch. Do you want to improve your front porch? If so, continue reading to learn how to make your porch inviting to guests.
Tips to Make Your Porch Inviting to Guests
⎆ De-Clutter
If you have several pieces of furniture, planters, and décor covering every inch of your porch, it may be time to downscale. Even if it contains high-quality items, a cluttered porch can give the impression that your house must also be in a chaotic state. Upon seeing the clutter, your guests may feel overwhelmed and claustrophobic. Fortunately, there is an easy fix to help create a more relaxed vibe for new visitors.
To reduce the feeling of cramped space, begin to remove your least favorite items from the porch. You’ll need to ensure there is a clear and comprehensive path for anyone to navigate the space. Seating options should offer a designated conversation area but not overtake the porch. A few plants add pops of color that complement and warm the space, but you don’t want it to feel like a jungle. Here are more ideas on how to improve your overall curb appeal.
⎆ Lighting
Another way to create a welcoming porch is to provide lighting that offers a relaxed ambiance. Everyone has a porch light, but you can incorporate decorative string lights and even outdoor floor lamps. If you can effectively create an extension of your indoor living space out onto the porch, it offers an exciting area to entertain. Try to avoid only using a bright porch light and instead get creative and make the area more appealing.
In addition to string lights and outdoor lamps, you can install step lighting and solar lights to highlight your walkway. A dark sidewalk isn’t welcoming, and unlit stairs can be a trip hazard. There are inexpensive solar lighting options available in most home improvement stores. By including these lights, you ensure that your home is inviting in the evening.
⎆ Welcoming Décor
Nothing gives the impression of a warm and friendly space more than welcoming décor. It would be best to consider a new welcome mat with a positive message that expresses something about you. For example, if your mat asks guests to “Wipe Their Paws,” you’re letting them know you like dogs. Some options for welcome mats have a word such as “Hello” or “Home.” These simple sentiments provide guests an appealing and cozy first impression of your home.
Other decoration options that can create an inviting feeling are signs. Welcome signs come in a variety of styles and can hang up or lean against the house. You can also create your own sign and infuse more of your personality into the space. This décor immediately confirms to guest’s friendliness and approachability.
⎆ Pillows
If you have furniture on your front porch, an easy way to enhance the feeling of comfort and relaxation is to add pillows. There are pillows specially made to be outside, and they offer a homey addition to your porch. If guests can see themselves happily spending time in this space, it provides a positive step in their introduction to your home. With many patterns and color options, you can add interest to the outdoor furniture with decorative outdoor throw pillows.
⎆ Outdoor Rugs
One of the best ways to warm up an outdoor space is to add a soft rug. Adding a rug is another way to extend the interior space outside. Rugs can help define the space and separate conversational areas from walkways. A soft surface underfoot invites guests to relax and even remove their shoes. Rugs instantly put out a cozy vibe and can also help tie the space together. You can even select something that expresses your personality and adds more interest to the porch. Here are more outdoor design ideas to improve your home’s exterior.
⎆ Inviting Guests to Your Home
With so many great options to make your porch inviting, you can design a space infused with your individuality. The front porch is the first thing guests see, and first impressions are difficult to change. Make sure you de-clutter if your patio doesn’t offer clear pathways or open spaces. Install additional lighting to create a warm ambiance and light the stairs and path with solar lights. Consider adding welcoming décor that makes your guests feel your home is friendly and approachable. Lastly, think about adding some throw pillows and a rug to capture an outdoor extension of the house.
Images Courtesy of Canva.
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About the Author: Ashley Edwards
